Xi arrives in Lhasa for celebrations of 60th founding anniversary of Xizang autonomous region

LHASA - Chinese President Xi Jinping, who leads a central delegation, arrived in Lhasa, capital of Xizang autonomous region, on Wednesday to attend activities in celebration of the region's 60th founding anniversary.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, and the delegation received a warm welcome from people of various ethnic groups in Xizang at the airport and in Lhasa's city proper.

Around noon, Xi's plane landed at Lhasa Konggar International Airport, greeted by a cheering crowd. Xi stepped out of the cabin and waved to the people.

Xi walked down the airstairs and was presented with a hada -- a scarf-like white silk used by people in Xizang for respect and blessings. Dressed in festive attire, people from different ethnic groups waved red flags and flower bouquets, dancing to joyful rhythms.

Crowds lined the streets to welcome the convoy. Xi opened the car window and waved to the people.

Xi is accompanied by Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and head of the central delegation, as well as Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee. Both Wang and Cai are members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.